The Grove Remodel: Part One

Nestled along the riverfront in a mature South Fargo neighborhood is a project fondly referred to as “The Grove,” a beautiful family home undergoing a major transformation.

In this first phase of renovation, lead interior designer Lexi Jordheim of McNeal & Friends overhauled the main-floor primary suite, infusing new life into the 25-year-old home’s more traditional aesthetic. Embracing the original intricate woodwork and ornate moldings, Jordheim said no to the typical demo – instead preserving its good bones and authentic, artisanal character. With a thoughtful remodel of the primary bedroom, fireplace, closet, and bathroom, these homeowners are sitting pretty and resting easy – retiring to a spainspired retreat that artfully frames beautiful views inside and out.

BY Lexi Jordheim & Tracy Nicholson
PHOTOGRAPHY BY Dan Francis Photography

RENO REVEAL: PHASE 1

To go behind the design, McNeal & Friends’ Lexi Jordheim takes us on a tour, revealing the home’s first phase of renovations that she led to reimagine the primary suite’s bedroom, bathroom, and spacious walk-in closet.

TOURING BED, BATH & BEYOND
In The Grove's primary suite renovation, my goal was to preserve the design authenticity of the original home, yet also breathe new life and character into these spaces. This home, although it was built 25 years ago, boasts so much charm and traditional character. I also love that it showcases the timeless work of so many local artisans – and that's exactly what I want to shine through this time around, too.

BEFORE

After

TRADITIONAL MYTHS
A dated, traditional style doesn’t necessarily mean stagnation. In fact, this style can often serve as a canvas for innovation. When I took on this project, I knew The Grove would need an extensive renovation, but I also knew it was an opportunity to extend its original character while bringing in many new functions better suited to the current homeowners.

Although the primary suite felt outdated, it embodied the essence of traditional architecture, including well-crafted woodwork, moldings, and natural materials that speak to timeless design. These classic elements contributed to a remarkable transformation, including an elegant facelift for the fireplace, new paint, updated fixtures, cozy fabrics, and bespoke furnishings from McNeal & Friends.

Here, we framed out the fireplace to give it a more modern shape, and on the hearth, we brought in the same quartz stone and stone-edge profile that we used in the bathroom and closet. I really wanted these spaces to be brought together intentionally and tastefully, so I carried this quartz stone and edge profile throughout the primary suite.

In preparation, while design dreaming, scheming, and ordering product, I felt it was important to reflect the architectural language in both the furnishings and materials. Our furnishings brought a whole new level of character to the space, including a cozy reading corner, art that spoke to my clients, and refreshed bedding that chimed in on the rich wood tones throughout the suite.

BEFORE

BATHING BLISS
The bedroom was just the beginning of the suite’s transition to a dream retreat, which also included renovation of the bathroom’s separate toilet room, a small seating lounge, shower, tub area, and sink vanities.

The prior built-in jacuzzi was used often by my clients and their young children, but I wanted to update the tub area and make a statement with the incredible Memoirs freestanding tub from Kohler – a true, modern-traditional dream bath.

What was once a traditional makeup vanity, is now a cozy sitting area for the kids to enjoy when their parents are getting ready. As a vanity, this was not a fulfilled space for the current homeowners, so it made sense to incorporate a set of lovely slipcover chairs that are durable, washable, and comfortable for everyone in the family.

CURATED CLOSET
Through the doorway from the bathroom, my next task was to re-imagine the his-and-hers walk-in closet, leveraging storage space, display areas, window positioning, and natural daylight. The addition of custom cabinetry and a spacious island creates a harmony of form and function for the clients. The priority of storage for our clients was overhead, hidden storage for large items such as suitcases, backpacks, yoga mats, and other household items. The display space features reeded glass that protects items from dust and sun damage. There are also RFID lockable cabinets and drawers to keep items safe and out of reach from children.

Throughout all the suite’s renovated spaces, I married classic character with modern materials, playing to an atmosphere that was designed to evoke timeless elegance.

Every detail was designed with intention, from the paint color paired with the existing trim color to the traditional stone-edge profile on the countertops and fireplace. I also carefully chose hardware finish and classic art pieces that would reflect both modern and traditional elements.

As the dust settled and the final touches were put in place, this suite felt rejuvenated and joyfully reborn, yet still steeped in tradition.

RENO REVEAL: PHASE 2

ONWARD & UPSTAIRS
After tours of the pristine primary suite, we headed onward and upstairs to share a glimpse inside another beautiful bathroom overhaul, this time for the client’s young daughter.

The inspiration for the upstairs bathroom started with this amazing Jeffery Court marble floor. I knew the play on gold and brass tones throughout the floor would be the launching point for the rest of the details. This tile is so special, just like the little girl who gets to enjoy it.

BEFORE

For the cabinetry, I kept it visually light and fresh, choosing Sherwin-Williams Accessible Beige to match the adjacent desk in the bedroom. While the outcome achieved the goals of the client, I wanted to make sure this was a fun and whimsical space their daughter would love at any age.

With the primary suite and upstairs bath complete, we’re already in preparation with the client to launch a third phase of renovations, this time focused on transforming the home’s main living areas and kitchen.

In the world of interior design, where trends may come and go, projects like The Grove serve as a reminder of the enduring beauty of traditional craftsmanship and the limitless possibilities of new innovation. If you’re lucky enough to have the opportunity to marry the two together, you won’t be disappointed!

DESIGN DETAILS:
Interior Designer: McNeal & Friends (Lexi Jordheim, Lead Interior Designer)
Cabinetry: Bitz Custom Cabinetry
Paint and Drywall: Traill Painting - Benjamin Moore (Swiss Coffee)
Plumbing: TallonTed Plumbing
Tub & Plumbing Fixtures: Kohler
Hardware: Restoration Hardware
Lighting: Visual Comfort
Electrical: King Electric
HVAC: Agassiz Mechanical
Demolition: Midwest Handyman LLC
Flooring: Anderson Hardwood Floors
Tile: Imperial Tile and Flooring
Wallpaper: Gene’s Paint and Decorating

Contact the Designer:
Lexi Jordheim | McNeal & Friends
3265 45th St. S, Suite 128, Fargo
ljordheim@mcnealfriends.com
701.235.0031 | mcnealfriends.com